Optimizing Bulky Goods Storage with Kardex Automated Warehouse Solutions

Customer Overview

Frank Mohn is an international group founded in 1938, specializing in the manufacturing of submerged pumping systems for the marine and offshore industries. At its plant in Frekhaug, Norway, with a workforce of more than 1,200 employees, Frank Mohn operates multiple advanced production lines, including CNC machining, welding, and cutting across several levels.

Warehouse Management Challenges

Frank Mohn faced several challenges, including:

• Storing large and heavy components (long pipes, heavy pallets, etc.)
• Optimizing warehouse space with significant ceiling height
• Ensuring fast and accurate access to components for assembly processes
• Efficiently managing semi-finished goods between production areas

Manual storage systems and elevator-based transport were no longer suitable for modern production requirements, leading to operational delays and increased costs.

Kardex Solution – Smart Automated Storage

To address these challenges, Frank Mohn selected Kardex, a specialist in smart intralogistics solutions, to design an automation system tailored to its production needs. The solution included:

1. TowerMat – Storage for Long, Heavy, and Bulky Goods

• A TowerMat TM-FE 2.3 system, 18 meters high, installed outside the facility for storing long and heavy goods (up to 5 Euro pallets per carrier, with a load capacity of up to 1,000 kg per pallet).
• Three access points, including an external access door that allows suppliers to deliver goods directly.
• An additional TowerMat installed inside the factory to store pipes and components up to 7 meters in length.

2. Kardex Shuttle – Storage for Small and Medium Parts

• Six Kardex Shuttle 1000 systems for fast storage and retrieval of small to medium-sized components.
  
• Six Kardex Shuttle Multiple systems for single-pallet storage, maximizing the use of warehouse depth.

All systems are centrally managed via the Power Pick System software, integrated with LED position indicators and confirmation bars to enhance operational accuracy.

Learn more here: CaseStudy_EN_FrankMohn.pdf

Achieved Results

• Increased storage efficiency: 165 Euro pallets stored within just 49.5 m² of floor space
• Optimal use of vertical space: full utilization of ceiling height up to 18 meters
• Streamlined material flow between CNC machining, welding, and assembly areas
• Just-in-time supply ensured through fast and accurate retrieval
• Reduced waiting times and lower labor requirements for warehouse operations

Conclusion

Thanks to Kardex’s smart automated warehouse solutions, Frank Mohn has completely transformed its traditional storage system, significantly improving operational efficiency and optimizing costs. This project is a strong reference for heavy-industry manufacturers seeking an effective and sustainable solution for storing bulky, heavy, and oversized goods.

Are you looking for an automated warehouse solution for heavy, long, and mixed-size products?

Contact ETEK for expert consultation and a customized warehouse automation design tailored to your business needs.